Siddhartha Gautama - The Buddha

Buddha is one of the most widely recognized religious leaders figures in the world. Born Siddhartha Gautama, the son of a king, in the 6th century BC in Nepal. Siddhartha was raised in a palace in complete isolation from the troubles of the world. It was prophesied that he would with become a great ruler or spiritual leader. Siddhartha grew restless in his late 20’s and fled the palace in search of answers to his numerous questions. Upon seeing the harsh realities of the world, he chose the life of an ascetic spending his days meditating and studying religion. After six years of suffering and contemplation, Siddhartha left his post and continued on his quest of enlightenment.Under the Bodhi tree, Siddhartha stayed for many days purifying his mind and meditating until he finally saw the answer to the questions that had plagued him. During this moment of pure enlightenment, Siddhartha transcended to become the Buddha also known as “he who is awake”.Buddha returned to civilization and began teaching the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path which became the pillars of Buddhism. Buddha traveled and taught the Dharma (teachings of Buddha) for more than 80 years spreading the message of balance, peace, and enlightenment.

The Mudra (symbolic gesture)

Bhumisparsa mudra is translated from the Sanskrit as touching the earth or calling the earth to witness the truth. This mudra is depicted with the left hand facing upward at the waist (varada mudra) while the other hand points downward, toward the earth. Bhumisparsa mudra is said to have been the Buddha's hand gesture when he achieved enlightenment. When the demon Mara attempted to corrupt his resolve, the Buddha is said to have touched the ground, denoting that the earth was bearing witness to his victory over the darkness of delusion. The bhumisparsa mudra, then, is nothing less than a commemoration of the Buddha's enlightenment.

The Bindu

The teardrop-shaped bump, known as the Bindu, on the forehead of Buddha is symmetrically placed above the eyes where the third eye is located. When the Bindu is placed on the Buddha it is representative of The Absolute being contemplated which is the highest level of spiritual consciousness.

Feng Shui

Display the Standing Buddha in the center of your home or at the entrance for optimal benefit.